Hanauma Bay Snorkeling Tours

Hanauma Bay History

Hanauma Bay was declared a protected marine life conservation area and underwater park in 1967

Formed within a volcanic cone, today Hanauma Bay offers a pristine marine ecosystem after the City and County of Honolulu laid out a plan in 1990 to restore the “curved bay,” after years of use from the millions of visitors who visit and love to snorkel Hanauma Bay. Voted the Best Beach in the United States for 2016 our volunteers have a booth located on the beach level to help visitors learn about conservation of the reef and the types of fish that live there.

In 2002 a marine education center was opened for visitors and part of the conservation plan requires first-time visitors to watch a 9 minute video before entering the park so they can learn about the marine life, preservation and safety rules for the park. All visitors are required by law to refrain from mistreating the marine animals and from touching or walking on the coral. In the early 2000’s the natural spa called “Toilet Bowl” because of the rise and fall of water with the waves, was closed due visitor injuries and safety concerns.

About Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve

"Hana" is the Hawaiian word for "Bay" and "uma" refers to the curves of the indigenous canoes.

For many years Hawaiian Royalty used Hanauma bay for fishing and recreation

Hanauma Bay is a must do for your Oahu island itinerary. It is one of the premier destinations on Oahu if you want to get acquainted with hundreds of tropical fish and marine life. It offers an overall great experience whether your a beginner or an avid snorkeler and it's for people of all ages.

Snorkeling & Family Fun

Great Fun for All Ages and Skill Levels

Voted #1 Beach - 2016

by Dr. Beaches

"This is the BEST Snorkeling location in Hawaii."

Sally Borgan

Frequently Asked Questions

Getting out to Hanauma Bay

You can drive out on your own & it’s only $1.00 to park • There are only 300 parking stalls – arrive EARLYThe parking lot fills up early, around 7:00 or 7:30 am and guarded by security for your protection.
If you drive out on your own you can rent snorkel gear at the bottom ( beach level) for $20
A taxi will run about $40 to $50 one way • The #22 Bus cost $2.50 one way and takes about 45 minutes.

Do I need to make a reservations??

Reservations are required for us to pick you up at your Waikiki hotel for our shuttle service,
If you plan to drive to the bay on your own No reservations are needed – arrive early.

We have 3 round-trip Waikiki shuttle services that run daily:

Our Extended Shuttle picks up at 7:15am – 8:45am – 10:15am (4 ½ hrs total – $25)
Shuttle service includes round trip transportation and equipment (Fins, mask and snorkel)
Try our NEW North Shore and Hanauma Bay Snorkel, a full day of “5 Star” fun in the sun

When is Hanauma Bay Closed and what time does it open?

Hanauma Bay is closed every TUESDAY so that the fish and bay have 1 day of undisturbed rest
Hanauma Bay entrance opens at 6am and Closes at 6pm daily
The park is also closed on Christmas Day (25th) and New Years Day (1st)
Hanauma Bay is NOT open for any night snorkeling – this was discontinued years ago

What are the fees and cost at Hanauma Bay?

Everyone pays $7.50 per person to enter the Hanauma Bay. (Kids 12 & under are FREE) • Active Oahu military and local residents with proper state ID are also FREE • Lockers are available on the beach level to secure your valuables – $8.00 small / $10 large • Life jackets, Vests or Floaties are NOT available due to liability reasons, please bring you own • Prescription mask/snorkel set, for nearsighted, available for $15 at the bay (-200 to -800) • There is a snack bar located at the upper level area of the park, right across from cashiers window • Tram service between the upper level and the lower level ($1.00 down / $1.25 up) • Beach wheel chairs are available for free, see the volunteers at Hanauma Bay.

What do I need to bring with me?

Each person should bring a towel, swimsuit, reef-safe sunscreen, and the park entrance fee of $7.50 • You may bring a small personal cooler with snacks or non alcoholic beverages – NO large coolers • A little extra cash for the snack bar or the gift shop on the upper level for souvenirs • A small gratuity for the drivers would be appreciated but not mandatory.

Hanauma Bay State Park
7455 Kalanianaole Hwy
Honolulu, Hawaii

When driving out from Waikiki take H1 Freeway until it becomes Kalanianaole Highway then continue for approximately 10 miles.
The entrance to Hanauma Bay is located on the right at the top of the hill just past the city of Hawaii Kai.